Hospitality Exchange returns in-person for 2021
Northern Ireland Hotels Federation President Stephen Meldrum has announced that its annual gathering, Hospitality Exchange 2021, will take place in the Crowne Plaza on the 12th and 13th October 2021.
The announcement follows news that conferences and exhibitions have an indicative return date of June 21 and following last year’s scaled back virtual event NIHF hopes to stage a live event in line with regulations in place at the time.
Stephen said: “In keeping with tradition, this year’s programme will focus on hot topics, new trends and challenges within the hospitality sector. Time will be spent reflecting on the role tourism has played in shaping Northern Ireland as we know it today, the impact of the pandemic and the future potential.
“We’ve come a long way and a lot of things have changed but two things have come to the fore: the important role hotels play in the economic and social landscape of Northern Ireland and the important role that people play in the success of the sector.
‘Travel experiences’
“That’s why businesses continually look at the attractiveness of the sector and how they can keep staff motivated. To support them in this endeavour, at this year’s Hospitality Exchange we will be exploring staff engagement, industry attractiveness and opportunities.
“Food also plays a critical role in hospitality. Northern Ireland’s produce, which is recognised for its high quality, coupled with the innovation of talented chefs, is a driving force in our hospitality and tourism industry. Restaurants and chefs are an important element of travel experiences.
“The authenticity of the local cuisine, chefs’ skills, and authentic dining are important factors when choosing a destination. This will be another central theme in the 2021 programme.
“There will also be an update from tourism agencies, exploration of the recovery process and a specific tourism economic update”.
For those interested in developing and tapping into innovation to drive business, this year’s Hospitality Exchange promises much and further details will be revealed over the coming months.
